"Almost all those preconceptions [about Gervais] are wrong. Almost all of them. Gervais is trying, if not to atone, then to progress – but he’s not been bold enough. Smears of old paint spoil the canvas."

Surprisingly, the 50-year-old comedian came up with the idea for the programme before he thought of The Office, and has previously used the character in his stand-up shows.

As anticipation builds for Derek, Channel 4 have released five trailers, showing Gervais in character as the titular hero.

The clips see Derek introduce his relationship with care worker Hannah to the cameras, as well as interacting with the care home's elderly residents, while Karl Pilkington's character Dougie - a balding caretaker - is introduced to viewers in a scene filmed in his office.

The first episode will be broadcast 12 April on Channel 4.

WATCH: 5 clips from Derek, tell us what you think in the poll above...